Oliver L. North, a combat decorated Marine, New York Times best-selling author, small business founder, columnist and host of "War Stories" on the Fox News Channel, will be the keynote speaker at the Ag Warriors Benefit on Wednesday, February 13, 2013.

North, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, served 22 years as a United States Marine. His awards for service in combat include the silver star, the bronze star for valor and two purple hearts for wounds in combat.

"We are very excited to have Colonel North join us as our keynote speaker for the Ag Warriors Benefit at World Ag Expo," said Jerry Sinift, chief executive officer, International Agri-Center. "We look forward to hearing from Colonel North in February, and hope the agriculture community will join us in supporting our veterans."

The Benefit will support the International Agri-Center's Ag Warriors program. The program responds to the need to assist veterans in finding long-term employment. Through Ag Warriors, veterans can access resources to connect with employers, schools and other programs with the goal of securing careers in the agriculture industry.

"Since its launch at World Ag Expo earlier this year, Ag Warriors has stayed true to its mission of linking returning veterans with rewarding, sustainable careers in agriculture," said Sinift. "The 2013 Benefit will help the International Agri-Center carry on the good work of the Ag Warriors program and continue assisting veterans and the agriculture community."